Is the BJP Really an Anti-Bengali Party, as CM Mamata Banerjee Claims?

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Is the BJP Really an Anti-Bengali Party, as CM Mamata Banerjee Claims?

Synopsis

In a fiery address at the West Bengal Assembly, CM Mamata Banerjee launched a scathing attack on the BJP, labeling it as an anti-Bengali force. Her claims came amidst protests from BJP members, highlighting the ongoing political tensions in the region. Will this be the turning point for the BJP in Bengal?

Key Takeaways

  • Mamata Banerjee labels BJP as anti-Bengali.
  • Calls for BJP's removal from West Bengal.
  • Protests erupted from BJP legislators.
  • Five BJP members suspended during the session.
  • Political tensions in West Bengal are escalating.

Kolkata, Sep 4 (NationPress) West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee characterized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as a deeply anti-Bengali political entity during a session of the West Bengal Assembly. She stated, “The BJP is a communal, anti-lower caste and anti-Bengali force. They are, in essence, also anti-Hindu. We need transformation in West Bengal, starting with the complete eradication of the BJP from our state, followed by their removal from the nation. Their departure is imminent,” she asserted while discussing the alleged mistreatment of Bengali-speaking individuals in BJP-governed states on the final day of the special assembly session.

During her address, BJP representatives were vocally protesting in the assembly against the “undemocratic” suspension of Suvendu Adhikari, the leader of the opposition, which occurred on Tuesday.

“The BJP is both anti-Bengal and anti-Bengali. They attempt to silence my voice in Bengali within the assembly, hence their disruptions during my speech. Their corruption is rampant, and they cannot secure elections in West Bengal under such conditions. They will face defeat,” the Chief Minister remarked.

She further likened the BJP's protesting members to evil figures akin to “Ravana.”

Addressing the decision by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman regarding GST revision, she claimed it was out of pressure from her that the central government ultimately made this move.

“The time for the BJP's exit is nigh. They have compromised the entire nation,” the Chief Minister stated.

Earlier in the session, five BJP legislators were suspended within a short timeframe on the last day of the assembly meeting.

The suspended members included the party’s Chief Whip, Shankar Ghosh, fashion designer-turned-politician Agnimitra Paul, veteran MLA Mihir Goswami, cricketer-turned-politician Ashok Dinda, and Bankim Ghosh.

On Tuesday, Suvendu Adhikari was also suspended from his position.

As Mamata Banerjee commenced her speech on the harassment of Bengali-speaking individuals in BJP-ruled states, BJP legislators led by Chief Whip Shankar Ghosh protested against the suspension of Adhikari.

Initially protesting from their seats, they eventually gathered in the Well of the Assembly to continue their demonstration.

Speaker Biman Bandopadhyay urged the protesting BJP members to cease their actions, but they disregarded his request.

Point of View

CM Mamata Banerjee's claims about the BJP being anti-Bengali reflect the deep-seated political divides in West Bengal. While her statements resonate with many in the state, they also highlight the rising tensions between regional and national political narratives. As these dynamics unfold, the future of politics in Bengal remains uncertain, making it vital for all parties to engage in constructive dialogue.
NationPress
04/09/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What did CM Mamata Banerjee say about the BJP?
CM Mamata Banerjee described the BJP as a thoroughly anti-Bengali party and called for its removal from West Bengal and the country.
What was the context of her remarks?
Her comments were made during a special session of the West Bengal Assembly while discussing alleged harassment of Bengali-speaking individuals in BJP-ruled states.
What actions were taken against BJP legislators?
Five BJP legislators were suspended during the assembly session, including the party’s Chief Whip, Shankar Ghosh.
How did the BJP respond to her speech?
BJP legislators protested vocally during her speech, highlighting their discontent over the suspension of their leader.
What is the significance of this political debate?
This debate underscores the ongoing tensions between regional and national political identities in India, particularly in states like West Bengal.